36/8 Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review - Finland
Document Type: Final Report
Date: 2017 Jul
Session: 36th Regular Session (2017 Sep)
Agenda Item: Item6: Universal Periodic Review
GE.17-11951(E)
Human Rights Council Thirty-sixth session
11-29 September 2017
Agenda item 6
Universal periodic review
Report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review*
Finland
* The annex is being issued without formal editing, in the language of submission only.
United Nations A/HRC/36/8
Introduction
1. The Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review, established in accordance
with Human Rights Council resolution 5/1, held its twenty-seventh session from 1 to 12
May 2017. The review of Finland was held at the 6th meeting, on 3 May 2017. The
delegation of Finland was headed by the Minister of Social Affairs and Health of Finland,
Pirkko Mattila. At its 10th meeting, held on 5 May 2017, the Working Group adopted the
report on Finland.
2. On 13 February 2017, the Human Rights Council selected the following group of
rapporteurs (troika) to facilitate the review of Finland: Portugal, Saudi Arabia and Tunisia.
3. In accordance with paragraph 15 of the annex to Human Rights Council resolution
5/1 and paragraph 5 of the annex to Council resolution 16/21, the following documents
were issued for the review of Finland:
(a) A national report submitted/written presentation made in accordance with
paragraph 15 (a) (A/HRC/WG.6/27/FIN/1);
(b) A compilation prepared by the Office of the United Nations High
Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) in accordance with paragraph 15 (b)
(A/HRC/WG.6/27/FIN/2 and Corr.1);
(c) A summary prepared by OHCHR in accordance with paragraph 15 (c)
(A/HRC/WG.6/27/FIN/3).
4. A list of questions prepared in advance by Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway,
Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
was transmitted to Finland through the troika. These questions are available on the extranet
of the universal periodic review.
I. Summary of the proceedings of the review process
A. Presentation by the State under review
5. The head of the delegation of Finland emphasized the importance of the universal
periodic review and the active role played by civil society in the review process. The
Government had recently made significant changes in the national monitoring and
implementation of human rights, including the establishment of the independent Human
Rights Centre and the government network of contact persons for fundamental and human
rights. The Centre, its Human Rights Delegation and the Office of the Parliamentary
Ombudsman together formed the national human rights institution, which had been granted
A status in 2015.
6. The report for the universal periodic review had been drafted simultaneously with
the second National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights. With reference to the
Human Rights Report from 2014, she drew attention to the long-standing priorities of the
country’s human rights policy, namely the importance of the free and active participation of
civil society in all spheres of life, non-discrimination, openness and inclusion of all people,
with particular focus on the rights of women and girls, indigenous peoples, minorities and
persons with disabilities. Finland continued to systematically promote economic, social and
cultural rights. Those priorities formed a strong basis for Finland when standing for
membership in the 2021 Human Rights Council election. She reaffirmed her country’s
strong support for freedom of speech and freedom of expression, noting that Finland was
celebrating the centenary of its independence in 2017. Major structural reforms were being
planned in social welfare and health care, and in local and regional government. She
reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to promoting work-related migration and to
granting international protection to those in need, as well as to zero tolerance of racist
speech and other hate speech. Finland had created a new government anti-trafficking
coordination structure and would continue to actively promote and protect everyone’s
freedom of religion or belief and to support the work of human rights defenders.
7. With respect to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Finland was
committed to a human rights-based approach to development commitments and focused on
the rights of women and girls, as well as strengthening developing countries’ own
economies and democratic societies. The report for the universal periodic review contained
voluntary commitments regarding the development budget and funding for the least
developed countries, as well as the commitment to submit a voluntary interim report in
2019. In the second review cycle, Finland had accepted 71 of the 78 recommendations
received and another four in part. Moreover, in 2014, it had submitted a voluntary interim
implementation report to the Council.
8. Responding to the written questions that had been submitted in advance, she
highlighted the results of the first national action plan to prevent violence against women,
the number and financing of shelters and other services for victims of violence, such as a
24/7 helpline, legal advice, witness support and online services, a variety of social services,
and police reporting procedures. She mentioned the 2016 guidelines on creating a local
treatment chain to help victims of sexual violence and a pilot project for publicly funded
crisis centres. Other measures would be laid out in a four-year plan on the implementation
of the Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic
Violence (the Istanbul Convention). Action to prevent violence against women was further
strengthened by the Government Action Plan for Gender Equality.
9. The Government aimed to strengthen the participation of the Sámi and other local
actors in the use and management of renewable natural resources in the Sámi Homeland.
The new Act on the State Forest Enterprise included measures to ensure the rights of the
Sámi to participate in land use management planning on State-owned land in the Sámi
Homeland. The Government would decide later in 2017 whether it would pursue
ratification of the International Labour Organization (ILO) Indigenous and Tribal Peoples
Convention, 1989 (No. 169).
10. Turning to the right to self-determination in the care of older persons and how the
provisions of the National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights promoted their
rights, she noted that Finland was currently in the process of preparing extensive legislation
on the strengthening of the right to self-determination of social welfare and health care
clients and on reducing the use of measures restricting that right. Responding to the
question on the definition of rape, she said that the legislation as a whole showed that the
provisions were applied in cases where the victim had not given consent.
11. Concerning the participation of persons with disabilities in political and public life,
Finland had ratified the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in 2016 and a
coordination mechanism had been set up in 2017. The new advisory board for the rights of
persons with disabilities was composed of 18 members, 8 of whom were persons with
disabilities. Furthermore, a human rights committee of persons with disabilities had been
established as a permanent division under the Human Rights Delegation. She provided
details on the right to vote and stand for election of persons with disabilities. Responding to
another question, she said that the Government had decided not to ratify the International
Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their
Families.
12. In an effort to restrict the number of manifestations of racism and xenophobia,
particularly on the Internet, the Government had recently decided to allocate more
resources to police activities for the prevention of hate speech on the Internet and the
investigation of related offences. Turning to another question, she noted that a study on the
rights and experiences of intersex children would be initiated in 2017, after which the
Government would decide on relevant measures. In response to another question, she said
that, according to a recent government proposal, the maximum duration for keeping remand
prisoners in police facilities would be shortened to seven days and the conditions for
placement would be tightened. As for the National Non-Discrimination and Equality
Tribunal and its ability to award compensation to victims, she noted that the Non-
discrimination Act of 2015 provided for sanctions and remedies in a comprehensive
manner. Turning to the issue of measures to prevent hate crime and tackle bullying, she
drew attention to the fact that the Non-discrimination Act placed a legal obligation on
authorities, schools and employers to promote equality and to take active steps to prevent
discrimination and harassment.
13. In answer to the questions on migrants, asylum seekers and refugees, particularly
unaccompanied minors and their integration, the Minister elaborated on legislative changes
that had been made to ensure the management of the increased number of asylum seekers.
She also referred to the measures set out in the Government’s Integration Programme for
2016-2019 to support immigrants’ ability to secure an income, which was a requirement in
order for other family members to be granted a residence permit. That requirement could
limit the possibilities for family reunification and thus the integration of an unaccompanied
minor. However, exceptions might be made to the requirement if it was clearly in the
child’s best interest.
B. Interactive dialogue and responses by the State under review
14. During the interactive dialogue, 70 delegations made statements. Recommendations
made during the dialogue are to be found in section II of the present report.
15. Lebanon noted the presentation of the national report. It expressed appreciation for
efforts made by the Government to fight discrimination, racism and xenophobia through the
adoption of legislation and policies.
16. Libya expressed appreciation for the fact that the national report included
monitoring of progress achieved since the second review cycle. It was concerned about
cases of violence against women and children, which were mentioned in the report.
17. Lithuania congratulated Finland on its efforts across a wide range of human rights
issues. It commended Finland for adopting the second National Action Plan on
Fundamental and Human Rights 2017-2019 and supported efforts to combat violence
against women.
18. The Maldives commended Finland for the creation of the Non-Discrimination
Ombudsman and the National Non-Discrimination and Equality Tribunal as measures to
ensure that the rights of its citizens were not infringed.
19. Mexico welcomed the adoption of the National Action Plan on Fundamental and
Human Rights 2017-2019, particularly the inclusion of projects on human rights education.
It thanked Finland for sharing lessons learned on the prevention of domestic violence
against women and children.
20. Mongolia congratulated Finland for implementing most of the recommendations
from the previous review cycle on ratifying human rights treaties. It appreciated the efforts
Finland had made to further protect the rights of children and persons with disabilities. It
noted, however, that violence against women remained the main human rights issue.
21. Montenegro asked what policies had been developed to address all forms of
discrimination and violence against women, including domestic and sexual violence. It also
asked Finland to provide information on results achieved in implementing the action plan to
prevent hate speech and racism, as well as to foster social inclusion.
22. Mozambique commended Finland for the implementation of recommendations from
the previous cycle, which had informed the preparation of its second National Action Plan
on Fundamental and Human Rights 2017-2019. It appreciated the fact that Finland had
ratified almost all of the main United Nations and Council of Europe human rights treaties.
23. Namibia noted that Finland was an example of good practice on issues such as
access to information and free press, and that it was ranked by Reporters Without Borders
as one of the world’s top achievers. It applauded initiatives and achievements in
strengthening equality between men and women.
24. The Netherlands commended Finland for ratifying the Istanbul Convention and
establishing a committee to prepare a plan for its implementation. It appreciated steps taken
to legalize same-sex marriage as of March 2017.
25. Norway congratulated Finland for its commitment to complying with international
obligations and promoting human rights and transparency. With regard to the rights of
indigenous people, it commended Finland for the government-commissioned study that had
been published in 2017 in support of the discussion on Sami rights.
26. Pakistan expressed appreciation for the efforts of Finland to implement the
recommendations received during the previous review. It considered the second National
Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights to be an important milestone. It
commended the objective set by Finland to increase its development budget in the long
term to 0.7 per cent of gross national income.
27. Peru expressed appreciation for progress made, in particular with regard to the rights
of the Sami people, and the strong commitment of Finland to international cooperation in
the area of support for development.
28. The Philippines welcomed the ratification by Finland of several human rights
conventions, including the ILO Domestic Workers Convention, 2011 (No. 189), but
regretted that it would not ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the
Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. The Philippines
appreciated the efforts made to align the country’s domestic legal framework with its
human rights obligations, and commended the efforts of Finland to combat hate speech,
extremist movements and violent extremism.
29. Portugal commended Finland for its efforts to improve the rights of women, such as
the adoption of the Government Action Plan Gender for Equality.
30. The Republic of Moldova welcomed the adoption of the second National Action
Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights 2017-2019, which included recommendations
made by human rights mechanisms and the results of the evaluation of the previous action
plan. It noted concerns by certain human rights mechanisms regarding violence against
women.
31. Romania expressed appreciation for the participation of Finland in the universal
periodic review and commended it for the measures it had adopted to comply with accepted
recommendations in the current cycle.
32. The Russian Federation was concerned about the high indicators of human
trafficking in Finland and the detention of juvenile offenders together with adults in
correctional facilities.
33. Rwanda welcomed the continued efforts of Finland to promote and protect human
rights, including through the implementation of its second National Action Plan on
Fundamental and Human Rights and its efforts to combat discrimination, hate speech and
related intolerance.
34. Serbia welcomed the most recent institutional developments with regard to the
promotion of equality and combating discrimination and encouraged Finland to ensure
accountability for all expressions of racism, xenophobia, hate speech and for extremist
rhetoric in the public sphere.
35. Sierra Leone commended Finland for establishing its second National Action Plan
on Fundamental and Human Rights and on the enactment into national law of the
International Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional
Protocol. It noted the implementation in 2016 of the Government Action Plan against
Human Trafficking.
36. Slovenia welcomed the new National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human
Rights, the ratification of international human rights instruments by Finland and the
services available to older persons in Finland.
37. South Africa noted with appreciation the efforts made by Finland to implement the
recommendations it had accepted during its previous reviews, in particular efforts aimed at
combating racism and xenophobia. However, it remained concerned about the continuing
gender-based wage gap in Finland.
38. Spain congratulated Finland on the ratification of the International Convention on
the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its Optional Protocol. It was concerned that
although Finland ratified the Istanbul Convention, gender violence remained a problem in
the country.
39. Sri Lanka commended Finland for the high percentage of women’s participation in
the State legislature and recognized the efforts to strengthen gender equality, including the
adoption of the Action Plan for Gender Equality and the Act on Equality between Women
and Men.
40. The State of Palestine welcomed the steps taken by Finland to implement the
previous review recommendations and its commitment to promoting and protecting human
rights. It also welcomed the efforts of Finland to combat discrimination, including the
National Action Plan to combat discrimination and promote equality.
41. Sweden was concerned that although Finland was ranked as one of the most gender
equal countries in the world, domestic violence and sexual abuse against women remained
widespread. It was also concerned that transgender persons and intersex children continued
to face discrimination.
42. Timor-Leste welcomed the establishment of national human rights institutions, the
Government Action Plan for Gender Equality and the Government Action Plan against
Human Trafficking. Timor-Leste also wished to highlight the new project in Finland to
collect information about forced marriage.
43. Turkey welcomed the adoption of the Action Plan for Gender Equality, the adoption
of the National Action Plan to Reduce Violence against Women and the drafting of the
Government Action Plan against Human Trafficking. Turkey was concerned that
discriminatory and xenophobic comments had become more common.
44. Ukraine commended the significant improvements to the national legislative
framework provided by the adoption of laws and programmes for the protection of the
rights of children, vulnerable persons and persons with disabilities. It also welcomed the
legislative amendments on the prevention of human trafficking and on combating violence
against women.
45. The United Kingdom welcomed the ratification by Finland of the Convention on the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities, the Protocol of 2014 to the ILO Forced Labour
Convention, 1930, and the adoption of the 2016-2017 Government Action Plan against
Human Trafficking.
46. The United States of America congratulated Finland for its efforts in combating
discrimination and trafficking in persons and encouraged it to take steps to reduce the
number of religiously motivated hate crimes and ensure equal access for persons with
disabilities.
47. Uruguay praised the progress achieved with regard to the commitments made by
Finland to consider alternatives to the detention of asylum seekers and regular migrants.
48. Uzbekistan noted with satisfaction the legislative and administrative measures to
promote and protect human rights adopted by Finland over the past few years.
49. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela expressed concern about challenges related to
the increase in and propagation of increasingly extreme racism, racial discrimination and
xenophobia, especially against Roma, Somalis and on the Internet. It also expressed
concern about the increase in hate speech regarding immigration and asylum seekers.
50. Albania welcomed progress made in the promotion of human rights, in particular the
establishment of the second National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights with
a focus on education, equality and non-discrimination. It also welcomed major structural
reforms in social welfare and health care.
51. Algeria congratulated Finland on the adoption of the National Action Plan for the
Prevention of Violent Radicalization and Extremism, which aimed to combat hate speech
and prevent hate crimes. It also welcomed the establishment of the government plan of
action for persons with disabilities.
52. Angola noted with appreciation the progress accomplished in the legislation on
social protection for persons with disabilities. Nonetheless, it noted with concern the high
number of cases of violence against women and children, especially those from minorities.
53. Argentina congratulated Finland on the adoption of its second National Action Plan
on Fundamental and Human Rights 2017-2019.
54. Armenia welcomed the establishment of the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman. It
encouraged Finland to take further steps to strengthen the human dignity of children and
mutual respect between children and their parents in order to prevent violence against
children.
55. Australia commended the progress made in the field of discrimination on the
grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity. However, it was concerned that the Act
on the Legal Recognition of the Gender of Transsexuals still included a requirement that
persons must be sterilized or otherwise infertile before gender reassignment could be
legally recognized.
56. The head of the delegation of Finland emphasized the fact that the National Action
Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights focused on fundamental and human rights
education, equality and non-discrimination, the right of individuals and groups to self-
determination, and fundamental rights and digitalization. Highlighting the measures that
were being taken to prevent and combat violence against women, she highlighted the fact
that the purpose was to ensure the implementation of the Istanbul Convention and ensure
the provision of specific social and health services for victims of violence.
57. The delegation explained that the new non-discrimination law widened protection
against discrimination on the ground of sexual orientation and included protection against
discrimination in all areas of life. Following the introduction of gender-neutral marriage,
which had been the result of a citizens’ initiative in Finland, the Act on the Legal
Recognition of the Gender of Transsexuals had been amended. The abolition of the
infertility requirement was not included in the current Government’s legislative plan. A
preliminary understanding on a Nordic Sámi Convention had been reached; it underlined
the participation and self-determination of the Sámi. Moreover, the Government was taking
measures to create communities free from racism and discrimination by placing emphasis
on open dialogue, inter alia, through the Advisory Board for Ethnic Relations. In addition,
the Code of Conduct on countering illegal hate speech online, which had been published by
Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Microsoft and the European Commission, was currently
being implemented.
58. The delegation stated that the definition of rape contained in national legislation was
compatible with the Istanbul Convention and did not require violence or use of force.
Finland had a comprehensive legal framework on hate crime and hate speech, which were
regulated mainly in the Criminal Code. According to current law on prisons, juveniles
under 18 years of age should be detained separately from adults, as long as it was not
against their interest. Provisions on gender-based violence and violence against children
had been under constant revision. Finland has criminalized sexual harassment and stalking
and had enhanced the protection of victims.
59. The delegation noted that, under the first programme to implement the national
Roma policy, progress had been made, especially on education of the Roma. Preparations
for a new programme would be made in 2017. A survey on the health and well-being of the
Roma and the relevant services was currently being conducted. A specific State budget
allocation had been earmarked for providing culturally sensitive social and health services
in Sámi in the Sámi Homeland. With respect to the key projects of the Government, €40
million had been allocated to children and families, while €30 million had been allocated to
developing services for the elderly.
60. The delegation described the measures that were being taken to prohibit and reduce
corporal punishment and other violence against children. With regard to the best interest of
intersex infants, increasing attention was being paid to the information provided to parents
on the child’s development and the right to self-determination. Discussions on that topic
were ongoing. On child protection measures, the Finnish Child Welfare Act stressed that
the best interest of the child must be taken into consideration in all social welfare actions.
Taking a child into custody was a last resort.
61. The delegation elaborated on police activities with respect to violence against
women and support for victims. As for countering hate crimes, racism and xenophobia, the
Government had allocated €10 million to the police in 2016. Furthermore, a new National
Action Plan for the Prevention of Violent Radicalization and Extremism had been prepared
in 2016. With respect to activities to counter trafficking in human beings, the Government
had adopted its Action Plan against Human Trafficking 2016-2017. The delegation
emphasized the importance of the creation and further development of a national referral
mechanism and of anti-trafficking training.
62. The delegation described the government action plan on asylum policy and
legislative and other procedural changes in the field of asylum. All asylum applications
were assessed individually and all aspects of the case and relevant country of origin
information was taken into account. The law on detention of asylum seekers and other
foreigners contained strict preconditions for the detention of minors: unaccompanied
children could only be detained if they were over 15 years of age and had been issued with
an enforceable removal decision. Since 2017, the law had provided for a new precautionary
measure, namely the obligation for an alien to stay in a specific reception centre, which
further reduced the need to detain minors.
63. The delegation stated that human rights had been included in the new primary school
curriculum since 2014, with the aim of teaching, respecting, protecting, promoting and
implementing human rights at all levels. Furthermore, the recommendations of a study
conducted in 2014 on democracy and human rights in teacher education had been
implemented in 2015. Relevant in-service training had started in 2016 and would be
evaluated in 2017.
64. A working group had been set up in 2017 to review the system of representatives for
unaccompanied minors, and the Integration Act was being redrafted in the light of a
regional reform. In that context, the Government would review the governance of the
housing and support provided for unaccompanied minors who had a residence permit, while
taking into account the best interest of the child and the possibility for the minor to stay in
the same region before and after receiving the residence permit. Furthermore, measures
were being taken to increase transparency on the gender pay gap. Moreover, Finland had
ratified the Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights in 2014 and was currently
focusing on studies, capacity-building, dialogue and remedies in that regard.
65. The Government was drafting a proposal to Parliament to accede to the International
Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and for Finland
to recognize in full the competence of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances. Finland
actively monitored reservations made to international human rights treaties and objected to
reservations deemed to be incompatible with the object and purpose of a treaty. Finland had
valid reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Nonetheless,
the necessity of maintaining the reservations and the possibility of withdrawing them were
reviewed periodically.
66. Azerbaijan applauded the special legislative and institutional measures the
Government had taken in response to the universal periodic review recommendations on
enhancing anti-discrimination action.
67. Bangladesh appreciated the central values and goals of equality and non-
discrimination in Finnish society and the TRUST project, through which unaccompanied
minors, stakeholders and care practitioners worked together to find solutions for an
inclusive society. Bangladesh commended Finland for the legislative amendments, action
plans and various projects it had introduced in order to combat violence against women.
68. Bosnia and Herzegovina welcomed steps taken to further enhance a strong
foundation for the protection of human rights, in particular the ratification of the Optional
Protocol to the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
69. Botswana welcomed the Action Plan for Gender Equality and amendments to the
legislation on sexual offences. However, it was concerned about the high incidence of
domestic violence, challenges in combating trafficking and the persistence of
discrimination against persons with disabilities, immigrants and minority groups.
70. Brazil commended Finland for its Non-discrimination Act and the designation of the
Parliamentary Ombudsman as the national preventive mechanism against torture. It noted,
however, that the Criminal Code continued to define rape according to the degree of
violence of the perpetrator.
71. Bulgaria commended Finland for its ratification of the Optional Protocol to the
Convention on the Rights of the Child on the sale of children, child prostitution and child
pornography and of the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating
Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.
72. Canada commended Finland for its continued commitment to improve respect for
human rights and its efforts to strive for the principles of non-discrimination, equal
opportunities and transparency.
73. Chile appreciated the 2013 Human Rights Strategy of the Foreign Service of
Finland. It was concerned about the lack of progress on the ratification of the ILO
Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169), and wished to know whether
Finland was considering acceding to that instrument and, if so, how the Sami people would
participate in the accession process.
74. China welcomed the commitment of Finland to meeting its targets for development
assistance. It noted with concern that the Roma and Sami minorities still faced
discrimination in education, employment and housing owing to racism, xenophobia and
anti-immigrant sentiment, which was on the rise.
75. Colombia highlighted the high percentage of women in Parliament, Government and
among Finnish representatives in the European Parliament. It also highlighted the revision
of the Aliens Act, which affected unaccompanied minors and family reunification.
76. Côte d’Ivoire noted the legislative provisions that had been adopted in Finland
regarding gender equality and the care of persons with disabilities. Côte d’Ivoire
encouraged the Government to strengthen its efforts to guarantee universal human rights in
the country, particularly for minorities, migrants and asylum seekers.
77. Cuba highlighted actions taken to comply with the previous review
recommendations relating to human rights treaties, such as the ratification by Finland of the
Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It congratulated Finland on its
commitment to exceeding the budget for development, including the funding target of 0.2
per cent of gross national income to the least developed countries.
78. Egypt expressed concern regarding the increase in Finland of hate speech,
xenophobia, Islamophobia and racist and aggressive acts, especially against migrants and
asylum seekers. It also noted that the increased number of hate crimes might jeopardize
social relations.
79. Estonia welcomed the ratification by Finland of several United Nations human rights
instruments and of the Istanbul Convention on violence against women, as well as its
efforts to tackle discrimination, hate speech and hate crime. It acknowledged the
contribution Finland made to international development policy.
80. France welcomed the importance attributed by Finland to human rights and
fundamental freedoms, as well as the development of a National Action Plan on
Fundamental and Human Rights, in line with previous review recommendations.
81. Georgia noted with appreciation that Finland was a signatory to most international
conventions. It welcomed the ratification by Finland of several human rights instruments
since the previous universal periodic review and the adoption of its second National Action
Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights.
82. Germany welcomed the positive steps Finland had taken with respect to the
recommendations made during the previous review, its commitment to protecting human
rights at both the national and international levels and its ratification of several conventions.
83. Greece congratulated Finland on the significant progress it had made in the field of
human rights since its second review and encouraged it to continue its efforts to address
violence against women and to assist women victims of violence.
84. Guatemala took note of the significant progress achieved by Finland. It was,
however, concerned at reports indicating that the new Finnish Forestry Act had eliminated
several provisions on the protection of the rights of the Sami people.
85. Honduras welcomed the action Finland had taken to implement the
recommendations from the previous review. However, it was concerned that Finland was
not yet a party to the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All
Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families.
86. Hungary commended Finland for the preparation of the second National Action Plan
on Fundamental and Human Rights. It was concerned that persons belonging to certain
ethnic and religious minorities and persons with disabilities continued to face
discrimination.
87. Iceland congratulated Finland for the inclusive preparation process of the national
report and welcomed the 2015 revision of the Act on Equality between Women and Men. It
noted that Finland had a high percentage of women victims of violence.
88. India welcomed the National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights and
appreciated the fact that Finland acknowledged its growing sociopolitical polarization.
India encouraged Finland to address the issue of discrimination against persons with
disabilities, especially women and girls.
89. Indonesia welcomed the launch of the second National Action Plan on Fundamental
and Human Rights and commended Finland for its ratification of the Convention on the
Rights of Persons with Disabilities and its establishment of the new Non-Discrimination
Act.
90. The Islamic Republic of Iran regretted that Finland had not taken effective measures
to eliminate discrimination and violence against women and children, particularly those
from ethnic and religious minorities, and noted with concern the legislative changes
affecting refugees and migrants.
91. Iraq commended Finland for the high representation of women in Parliament and in
Government, as well as among its representatives in the European Parliament. Iraq also
commended Finland for the establishment of a national human rights institution.
92. Ireland commended Finland for its progress on human rights since its previous
review and for its consistent backing of international human rights institutions, including
through significant financial support. Ireland welcomed the amendment of sexual offences
legislation since the previous review cycle.
93. Italy commended Finland for its second National Action Plan on Fundamental and
Human Rights, its commitment to zero tolerance of hate speech and hate crimes and the
measures adopted to prevent and combat violence against women and children.
94. Kazakhstan commended Finland for its commitment to human rights and noted the
recent ratification of a number of international human rights instruments, the adoption of
the second National Action Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights, and the efforts of
Finland to enhance its anti-discrimination action.
95. The delegation of Finland provided additional details on the steps it was taking to
counter hate speech and hate crime, noting that the police had established a new specialist
unit to investigate hate crimes on the Internet and other networks.
96. Finland emphasized that the Act on Equality between Women and Men prohibited
gender-based discrimination, including discrimination based on pregnancy or family leave.
The Government had appointed a working group in 2017 to address inequality issues.
Further information was provided on the Government’s basic income experiment, health-
and social-care reform, key projects and the Government programme for young people who
were not in employment, education or training.
97. The delegation explained that Finland respected the principle of non-refoulement
and provided international protection to those in need. As for the asylum process, case
officers were trained to conduct interviews in a child-sensitive manner and followed
specific guidelines to that end. The asylum authority had also designated a case officer who
was specialized in the assessment of the best interest of the child.
98. The delegation elaborated on the stipulations concerning accessibility of public and
private buildings and transport for persons with disabilities, including the government
decree concerning accessibility of buildings. The Land Use and Building Act provided that
a building and its surroundings must, insofar as its use required, be suitable for people
whose capacity to move or function was limited. One of the objectives of the Finnish
transport policy was to mainstream accessibility into different forms of transport.
99. The head of the delegation concluded by expressing gratitude for the frank and open
debate and explained that the government network of contact persons for fundamental and
human rights would review the recommendations received, respond to them and follow-up
on their implementation. Finnish civil society would be invited to engage in the process,
including by identifying priority recommendations and with regard to follow-up. She
reiterated her country’s strong support for and commitment to the universal periodic review
process.
II. Conclusions and/or recommendations
100. The following recommendations will be examined by Finland, which will
provide responses in due time, but no later than the thirty-sixth session of the Human
Rights Council:
100.1 Withdraw its reservation to the International Covenant on Civil and
Political Rights (South Africa) (Portugal);
100.2 Ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of
All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families (Philippines) (Egypt)
(Honduras);
100.3 Promptly ratify the International Convention on the Protection of the
Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families and the ILO
Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) (Guatemala);
100.4 Consider ratifying the International Convention on the Protection of
the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families
(Mozambique) (Chile);
100.5 Consider ways forward for the ratification of the International
Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and
Members of Their Families (Indonesia);
100.6 Continue to consider acceding to the International Convention on the
Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their
Families and recognize the competence of its committee (Uruguay);
100.7 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons
from Enforced Disappearance, recognizing in full the competence of the
associated Committee (Portugal);
100.8 Speed up the process of accession to the International Convention for
the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Mozambique);
100.9 Continue with its efforts to ratify the International Convention for
the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (Argentina);
100.10 Ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons
from Enforced Disappearance (Bosnia and Herzegovina) (France)
(Montenegro) (Italy);
100.11 Finalize efforts aimed at acceding to the International Convention for
the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance and thus the full
recognition of the competence of the Committee on Enforced Disappearances
(Ukraine);
100.12 In accordance with the commitment made after the universal
periodic review of 2012, ratify the International Convention for the Protection
of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance; the ILO Indigenous and Tribal
Peoples Convention 1989, (No. 169); and the International Convention on the
Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their
Families (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
100.13 Ratify the Convention on the Non-Applicability of Statutory
Limitations to War Crimes and Crimes against Humanity (Armenia);
100.14 Ratify the International Labour Organization Indigenous and Tribal
Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) (Mexico);
100.15 Engage the Sami people in the ratification process of the ILO
Indigenous and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) (Norway);
100.16 Consider ratifying the International Labour Organization Indigenous
and Tribal Peoples Convention, 1989 (No. 169) (Peru);
100.17 Adopt an open, merit-based selection process when selecting national
candidates for United Nations treaty body elections (United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Northern Ireland);
100.18 Continue its efforts in the implementation of accepted
recommendations from the second cycle and consider sharing good practices in
that regard (Ireland);
100.19 Continue its efforts to further improve its relevant legal and
administrative frameworks and policies, in conformity with its international
commitments (Hungary);
100.20 Consider defining rape as a sexual violation in the Criminal Code,
irrespective of the degree of violence used or threatened by the perpetrator
(Namibia);
100.21 Amend the Criminal Code to no longer define rape according to the
degree of violence used by the perpetrator but rather the lack of consent of the
victim (Portugal);
100.22 Reform the Criminal Code to define rape as a sexual violation,
irrespective of the degree of violence used or threatened by the perpetrator
(Australia);
100.23 Continue strengthening national laws on offences related to violence
against women and girls (Botswana);
100.24 Amend the appropriate legislation in order to ensure that the
definition of rape covers all cases of non-consensual sexual acts (Brazil);
100.25 Provide its existing and new national institutions and bodies for the
advancement of women and gender equality with adequate human, technical
and budgetary resources (Timor-Leste);
100.26 Establish a national institution for the advancement of women in
accordance with the provisions of the Beijing Platform for Action (Honduras);
100.27 Further strengthen its national human rights institutions, especially
in the form of greater resource allocation (Pakistan);
100.28 Provide the national human rights institution with sufficient
resources to carry out its mandate effectively and independently, including the
promotion and protection of economic, social and cultural rights (Guatemala);
100.29 Ensure that the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman has the necessary
information and resources to make decisions related to mandatory
deportations, and can ensure that these are carried out respecting the rights of
those concerned (Mexico);
100.30 Further assist the efforts carried out by the new Non-Discrimination
Ombudsman in providing legal protection and remedies against all forms of
discrimination (Indonesia);
100.31 Continue allocating adequate financial and human resources to
effectively implement its national action plan on human rights (Philippines);
100.32 Mobilize adequate resources to complete its second National Action
Plan on Fundamental and Human Rights (Canada);
100.33 Sustain and create new platforms for human rights education (Bosnia
and Herzegovina);
100.34 Provide sufficient resources to continue with systematic human rights
education and training of teachers at all levels of national education (Slovenia);
100.35 Strengthen and enhance existing laws countering different forms of
discrimination, racism and xenophobia (Lebanon);
100.36 Enhance efforts aimed at the elimination of racism, racial
discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance by adopting a long-term
systematic response to these scourges (South Africa);
100.37 Continue its efforts to combat all forms of discrimination and
promote equality (Azerbaijan);
100.38 Continue its efforts and improve its legal and institutional
frameworks for protection against discrimination by ensuring the same level of
protection for all grounds of discrimination (State of Palestine);
100.39 Consider improving its legal and institutional frameworks for
protection against discrimination by ensuring the same level of protection for
all grounds of discrimination (Albania);
100.40 Step up efforts to improve its legal and institutional frameworks for
protection against discrimination (Bulgaria);
100.41 Make further efforts to ensure equal protection from discrimination
(Hungary);
100.42 Adopt a long-term and comprehensive framework to tackle
discrimination, racism and xenophobia, focusing both on prevention and on
combating human rights violations (Brazil);
100.43 Improve access to effective legal remedies for victims of
discrimination (Slovenia);
100.44 Ensure implementation of comprehensive legislative reform that
guarantees the same level of protection for all grounds of discrimination, in
particular discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender
identity (Montenegro);
100.45 Continue its efforts in the field of combating and eliminating
discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender identity, inter
alia, by implementing comprehensive legislative reform that guarantees equal
protection from discrimination on all grounds (Albania);
100.46 Eliminate, in the case of transsexuals, the requirement of
sterilization, medical treatment and a mental health diagnosis in order to
complete the process of legal recognition of gender identity (Mexico);
100.47 Amend the current Act on the Legal Recognition of the Gender of
Transsexuals by abolishing the need for sterilization or infertility as a
requirement for a person’s legal recognition of their gender identity
(Netherlands);
100.48 Eliminate sterilization as a necessary criterion for the recognition of
the gender of transgender persons (Portugal);
100.49. Remove the current norm for mandatory sterility to officially register
gender reassignment (Spain);
100.50 Revise the Trans Act (on the Legal Recognition of the Gender of
Transsexuals) by abolishing the need for sterilization, other medical treatment
and a mental health diagnosis as requirements for a person’s legal recognition
of their gender identity and ensure that medical procedures performed on
intersex infants and children take into account the best interest of the child
(Sweden);
100.51 Reform legislation to remove the requirement of infertility or
sterilization as a condition for the legal recognition of gender reassignment
(Australia);
100.52 Remove the requirement of infertility or sterilization before an
individual may change their gender on legal documents (Canada);
100.53 Amend its laws to remove the requirement for sterilization or
infertility before recognition of the gender of transsexual persons and further,
consider moving to a process allowing persons to self-declare their gender
identity (Ireland);
100.54 Strengthen prevention and awareness-raising programmes to address
xenophobia and violent extremism at the national and subregional levels
(Philippines);
100.55 Take measures against xenophobia and Islamophobia. Improve the
implementation of the existing legal framework for combating racism
(Turkey);
100.56 Take further steps to eliminate discrimination, racism and
xenophobia in the country (Uzbekistan);
100.57 Continue strengthening measures against racism, xenophobia and
Islamophobia, as well as discrimination against migrants (Chile);
100.58 Further combat racial discrimination and xenophobia, and effectively
reduce the number of cases of hate crime (China);
100.59 Take effective and rapid steps through the enactment of legislation to
combat hate speech, Islamophobia and aggressive racist acts, which are
increasingly prevalent in society, and ensure their effects are addressed in the
long term (Egypt);
100.60 Consider improving the implementation of the legal framework for
combating racism (Namibia);
100.61 Adopt appropriate legislative and policy measures to adjust its legal
system and combat and eradicate all forms of discrimination, racism and
xenophobia (Honduras);
100.62 Continue to introduce effective measures to combat all forms of
discrimination, hate speech and hate crime, both online and offline, and ensure
that such crimes are effectively investigated (Estonia);
100.63 Enhance efforts to curb hate crimes against certain religious
communities, ethnic groups and other minorities including indigenous people
(India);
100.64 Strengthen measures to prevent hate speech and harassment against
minority groups and persons with disabilities, in line with the National Action
Plan for the Prevention of Violent Radicalization and Extremism (Indonesia);
100.65 Ensure that the law enforcement, security and judicial authorities
have the necessary knowledge and skills to address hate crimes against
immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees by providing mandatory training and
guidelines, and amend laws specific to hate crime and hate speech (Islamic
Republic of Iran);
100.66 Intensify efforts to prevent and combat discrimination against
persons with immigration backgrounds (Turkey);
100.67 Continue to reinforce the measures of fight against xenophobia,
racism and intolerance with regard to migrants and asylum seekers (Angola);
100.68 Strengthen measures aimed at fighting against discrimination, racism
and xenophobia in the country, especially concerning migrants and asylum
seekers (Côte d’Ivoire);
100.69 Strengthen efforts to restrict outbreaks of racism and xenophobia,
especially manifestations of racism on the Internet (Italy);
100.70 Strengthen the fight against xenophobia on social networks and the
Internet (Algeria);
100.71 Take more effective measures in order to fight, and even to eradicate,
crimes and hate speech against minorities, focusing on prevention and
following-up these acts (Côte d’Ivoire);
100.72 Prevent hate speech on the Internet and intensify the fight against
hate crime through the implementation of the National Action Plan on
Fundamental and Human Rights and other measures (Cuba);
100.73 Take an effective stand against hate speech and aggressive attitudes
that are becoming increasingly mainstream (Islamic Republic of Iran);
100.74 Ensure that its policies, legislation, regulations and enforcement
measures effectively serve to prevent and address the heightened risk of
business involvement in abuses in conflict situations, which include situations of
foreign occupation (State of Palestine);
100.75 Consider including in its next universal periodic review report
information on measures it has taken to analyse potential risk factors of
atrocity crimes, including through utilization of the Framework of Analysis for
Atrocity Crimes (Rwanda);
100.76 Increase State funding for shelter services for victims of violence and
especially minorities and vulnerable groups (Islamic Republic of Iran);
100.77 Develop a comprehensive and coordinated programme to fight
human trafficking, adopt effective measures to prevent and eradicate human
trafficking and organize specialized training for law enforcement and
immigration officials and other State officials who enter into contact with
victims of human trafficking on issues relating to the identification of victims,
the conduct of investigations, criminal prosecutions and punishment of
perpetrators (Russian Federation);
100.78 Continue efforts to combat trafficking in human beings and take
effective measures to prevent and eradicate human trafficking and adopt
procedures for the determination of the best interests of child victims of
trafficking (Turkey);
100.79 Develop clear guidelines on how to identify and protect victims of
trafficking in persons (United States of America);
100.80 Effectively monitor and evaluate the 2016-2017 National Action Plan
against Human Trafficking and provide an update in a subsequent universal
periodic review report (United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern
Ireland);
100.81 Ensure the full implementation of the National Action Plan against
Human Trafficking as a means of ensuring the promotion and protection of
victims of trafficking (Botswana);
100.82 Continue strengthening measures of fighting against domestic
violence and human trafficking, including by increasing the number and
geographic coverage of reception centres for families and victims (Chile);
100.83 Seek to adopt procedures for the determination of the best interests
of child victims of trafficking and children of victims, including with a view to
strengthening the identification of victims of trafficking, especially women and
children (Bulgaria);
100.84 Release prisoners detained as conscientious objectors to military
service and ensure that civilian alternatives to military service are not punitive
or discriminatory and remain under civilian control (Uruguay);
100.85 Continue efforts to guarantee the representation in political and
public life of women belonging to disadvantaged groups like women with
disabilities, ethnic minorities, Roma people and migrants (Colombia);
100.86 Provide protection for the family as a natural and basic unit of
society (Egypt);
100.87 Continue with its structural reforms in social welfare and health care
with a focus on protecting the rights of women, children and vulnerable groups
(Pakistan);
100.88 Redouble its efforts to implement the principle of equal pay for work
of equal value, including through the further development of the Equal Pay
Programme (South Africa);
100.89 Eliminate the persistent wage gap for labour between women and
men by eliminating the significant segregation between the genders on the
labour market (Russian Federation);
100.90 Continue to narrow wage disparities between men and women in line
with the country’s Equal Pay Programme for 2016-2019 (Sri Lanka);
100.91 Effectively provide for the application of laws prohibiting wage
discrimination for equal work between men and women (Uzbekistan);
100.92 Adopt suitable legislation to combat and punish discrimination on the
basis of pregnancy and family leave in the labour market, which provides for
reparation for victims (Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela);
100.93 Take further measures to address discrimination against non-native
Finnish citizens in the area of employment, particularly by reducing the wage
gap between immigrants and native Finns (Serbia);
100.94 Take efforts to strengthen the education system through the provision
of mandatory training on human rights education (Maldives);
100.95 Continue the action aimed at the promotion of gender equality in all
public and private activities (Angola);
100.96 Continue to enhance the protection and the rights of women and
children (Bosnia and Herzegovina);
100.97 Conduct public awareness campaigns in the media to fight against
drug consumption, abusive consumption of alcohol and suicide among young
women and girls (Algeria);
100.98 Exert more efforts aiming at the elimination of all forms of
discrimination against women, particularly in the labour market (Libya);
100.99 Continue the work accomplished to prevent gender-based
discrimination, promote equality between women and men and thus improve
women’s condition, particularly in working life (Cuba);
100.100 Continue its good efforts to address violence against women
(Lithuania);
100.101 Ensure proper implementation of policies directed towards
combating violence against women, including the recommendations made by
the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women regarding
sexual violence (Republic of Moldova);
100.102 Establish a specific action plan to combat gender-based violence with
a special system of prevention for this type of violence and also broaden the
network of assistance for victims of sexual violence or gender-based violence
(Spain);
100.103 Promote gender equality and further combat violence against women
(China);
100.104 Take further measures aimed at eradicating violence against women
(Georgia);
100.105 Ensure the implementation of measures aimed at combating violence
against women (Iceland);
100.106 Strengthen efforts to prevent violence against women (Iraq);
100.107 Continue its efforts aimed at eliminating discrimination and
preventing violence against women and children, as well as taking further
measures, with a longer-term strategy, aimed at protecting women’s rights
(Iceland);
100.108 Prepare a national plan with allocated targets to combat violence and
discrimination against women and provide access and financial aid to support
services, and strengthen cooperation between different government agencies
(Islamic Republic of Iran);
100.109 Increase its funding to actors engaged in combating violence and
sexual abuse of women (Sweden);
100.110 Implement new measures to ensure victims of rape seek redress, and
modify the law to ensure the penalties for rape are more severe (Sierra Leone);
100.111 Carry out a review of criteria for prosecuting cases of rape and
sexual assault, to ensure that lack of consent, not only the use of force, is given
adequate consideration when bringing cases for prosecution (United Kingdom
of Great Britain and Northern Ireland);
100.112 Consolidate support services for women victims of violence (Republic
of Moldova);
100.113 Provide adequate support services to protect victims of domestic and
sexual violence (Turkey);
100.114 Continue its efforts to implement the Istanbul Convention by
ensuring that it has a sufficient budget, increase the number of shelters for
women and children victims of violence, strengthen penalties for rape, improve
the training of professionals for better reception of victims and better
processing of their complaints (France);
100.115 Implement the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and
Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence in order to provide
improved protection and assistance to women and children that have become
victims of violence (Germany);
100.116 Strengthen the measures to combat violence against women as well as
support victims and survivors of such violence (India);
100.117 Further continue its efforts to combat domestic violence and intensify
the implementation of the Government Action Plan for Gender Equality
(Mongolia);
100.118 Allocate sufficient resources in order to ensure full implementation of
the Council of Europe Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence
against Women and Domestic Violence (Netherlands);
100.119 Provide further support assistance services to better protect victims
of domestic violence (Sierra Leone);
100.120 Establish a national action plan to address domestic and family
violence (Australia);
100.121 Establish a national coordination unit and provide adequate
resources and other support for the implementation of the Council of Europe
Convention on Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and
Domestic Violence (Canada);
100.122 Take further measures to address violence against women, including
domestic and sexual violence, especially in the field of prevention (Estonia);
100.123 Take all the necessary measures to put an end to violence committed
against women and children (Libya);
100.124 Reinforce the measures to protect the rights of the child (Georgia);
100.125 Provide training on the rights of the child to public officials and civil
servants (Timor-Leste);
100.126 Bring its legislation on the rights of children during the asylum
procedure in line with the Convention on the Rights of the Child (France);
100.127 Establish additional standards to guarantee the swift and appropriate
appointment of guardians to unaccompanied minors (Portugal);
100.128 In cases when the Finnish authorities decide that the separation of
children from their natural family is necessary for the best interests of the
child, adopt that measure according to a decision taken by a judicial authority,
as required by the provisions of article 9 of the Convention on the Rights of the
Child (Romania);
100.129 Expedite the necessary legislative reforms to facilitate the
reunification of children with their families (Colombia);
100.130 Provide training in the area of the rights of the child for State
officials and civil servants at all levels, in particular to prevent cases of the
unjustified removal of children from their families (Russian Federation);
100.131 Ensure full implementation of laws prohibiting corporal punishment
in all settings, including through campaigns to raise awareness among adults
and children, as well as the promotion of positive and non-violent forms of
discipline that do not affect the upbringing of children (Uruguay);
100.132 Review national laws to prohibit the detention of minors (Portugal);
100.133 Adopt measures to hold juvenile and adult offenders separately
(Russian Federation);
100.134 Take measures to separate juvenile detainees from adults in all places
of detention (Algeria);
100.135 Accompany the implementation of the Convention on the Rights of
Persons with Disabilities with sufficient funds and concrete indicators through
a new national disability policy (VAMPO) that continues the 2010-2015 policy
(Spain);
100.136 Strengthen anti-discrimination legislation to ensure equal access for
persons with disabilities to public accommodations, commercial facilities and
transportation (United States of America);
100.137 Continue efforts to promote opportunities for productive and paid
employment for persons with disabilities (Colombia);
100.138 Continue consultations on the rights of persons with disabilities with
a view to implementing non-discriminatory policies and legislation (Maldives);
100.139 Establish and promote culturally sensitive initiatives to provide
services for minority groups such as Roma and Sami and for migrants and
refugees (Maldives);
100.140 Consider introducing incentives for better political participation of
minorities and immigrants with a view to upholding their integration into
society (Serbia);
100.141 Continue with the policies of inclusion of the Roma population
(Peru);
100.142 Continue its efforts to prevent discrimination against Roma (Timor-
Leste);
100.143 Protect the economic, social and cultural rights of the Sami people
from the negative effects that may result from logging and other activities
carried out by private agents (Guatemala);
100.144 Strengthen national efforts to protect migrants and refugees (Iraq);
100.145 Strengthen social integration policies, especially for migrants
(Lebanon);
100.146 Strengthen the policies related to receiving and the integration of
migrants and refugees (Peru);
100.147 Adopt legislation and policy measures to effectively promote and
protect human rights for refugees, migrants and ethnic minorities (China);
100.148 Continue its efforts to combat discrimination, particularly against
migrant workers (Bangladesh);
100.149 Take urgent measures for the investigation and punishment of acts of
hate and discrimination towards migrants, refugees and minorities, and
strengthen its awareness-raising programmes for the population in general and
for public officials (Argentina);
100.150 Ensure the effective protection of migrants, particularly women
migrant workers, against discrimination (Philippines);
100.151 Provide the necessary protection for and preserve the dignity of
asylum seekers, ensure their access to legal assistance, facilitate family
reunification procedures for migrants, and provide them with social security
(Egypt);
100.152 Evaluate the impact of recent changes made to policies and
legislation, which seem to restrict the international protection regime for
asylum seekers and refugees, and ensure that all persons in need of
international protection receive fair treatment and that refugees’ rights to
reunification are respected (Kazakhstan);
100.153 Thoroughly and comprehensively review its legislation regarding the
granting of asylum and migration in order to align it with its international
obligations and standards (Honduras).
101. All conclusions and/or recommendations contained in the present report reflect
the position of the submitting State(s) and/or the State under review. They should not
be construed as endorsed by the Working Group as a whole.
Annex
Composition of the delegation
The delegation of Finland was headed by the Minister of Social Affairs and Health
of Finland, Pirkko Mattila, and composed of the following members:
• Ms. Pirkko Mattila, Minister of Social Affairs and Health, Ministry of Social Affairs
and Health;
• Ms.Terhi Hakala, Ambassador, Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission of
Finland, Geneva;
• Ms. Tiina Ullven-Putkonen, Special Adviser to the Minister, Ministry of Social
Affairs and Health;
• Mr. Renne Klinge, Minister, Deputy Permanent Representative, Permanent Mission
of Finland, Geneva;
• Ms. Nina Nordström, Director, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland;
• Ms. Krista Oinonen, Director, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland;
• Ms. Marjatta Hiekka, Legal Counsellor, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland;
• Ms. Janina Hasenson, Legal Counsellor, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland;
• Ms. Katja Koskela, Counsellor, Ministry for Foreign Affairs of Finland;
• Ms. Johanna Suurpää, Director Ministry of Justice;
• Mr. Ville Hinkkanen, Senior Adviser, Legislative Affairs, Ministry of Justice;
• Mr. Veli-Pekka Rautava, Chief Senior Specialist, Ministry of the Interior;
• Ms. Kukka Krüger, Senior Specialist, Ministry of the Interior;
• Ms. Teija Pellikainen, Senior Officer for Legal Affairs, Ministry of Defence;
• Mr. Aki Tornberg, Councellor of Education, Ministry of Education and Culture;
• Ms. Seija Jalkanen, Administrator, Legal Affairs, Ministry of Economic Affairs and
Employment;
• Mr. Pasi Korhonen, Director of International Affairs, Ministry of Social Affairs and
Health;
• Ms. Viveca Arrhenius, Ministerial Counsellor for Social Affairs, Ministry of Social
Affairs and Health;
• Ms. Maija Iles, Senior Officer of Legal Affairs, Ministry of Social Affairs and
Health;
• Mr. Ville Koponen, Legal Adviser, Ministry of the Environment;
• Ms. Linda Ekholm, Counsellor, Permanent Mission of Finland, Geneva;
• Ms. Katariina Tervakangas, Second Secretary, Permanent Mission of Finland,
Geneva;
• Ms. Heini Leppänen, Adviser, Permanent Mission of Finland, Geneva;
• Ms. Kaari Mattila, Member of the Human Rights Delegation, The Finnish League
for Human Rights;
• Mr. Markku Jokinen, Member of the Network specializing in Human Rights in the
Finnish Foreign Policy, Finnish Association of the Deaf;
• Ms. Saija Kuronen, Sign language interpreter, Finnish Association of the Deaf;
• Ms. Susanna Silberstein, Sign language interpreter, Finnish Association of the Deaf.